These uses have been tested in humans or animals. Safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious, and should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider.

GRADE *

Chasteberry may inhibit prolactin secretion, and thus has been suggested as a potential therapy in hyperprolactinemia, a condition characterized by elevated serum prolactin levels. Although early evidence is promising, additional study is needed in this area.

B

Chasteberry has been suggested as having a role in treating symptoms of PMS. Further evidence is needed before a firm conclusion can be made.

B

Corpus luteum deficiency (CLD) refers to irregular development of the corpus luteumfollowing ovulation, resulting in abnormal progesterone secretion and incomplete endometrial differentiation. The term luteal phase deficiency (LPD) has also been used in this setting and has been shown to be involved with both infertility and recurrent pregnancy loss. The use of chasteberry for this condition remains controversial.

C

Despite early promising results, it remains unclear if chasteberry is an effective treatment in the management of cyclic mastalgia (breast pain). Additional study is needed in this area.

C

The effectiveness of chasteberry for female sexual dysfunction has been studied, but further study is needed.

C

Chasteberry has been studied for its effects on infertility alone and as a combination product. However, it also has been suggested that chasteberry be avoided during pregnancy. Further study is needed before firm conclusions can be made.

C

It remains unclear if chasteberry is an effective therapy in the management of irregular menses (menstrual bleeding). Additional study is needed in this area.

C

Chasteberry, alone or in combination with other agents, has been suggested for the treatment of symptoms related to menopause. A combination product containing chasteberry showed a lack of significant effects in major symptoms. Further research may be needed in this area.

C

There is limited evidence suggesting possible benefits of chasteberry in the reduction of PMDD symptoms. Further research is needed before a firm conclusion can be drawn.

C

* Key to grades

A: Strong scientific evidence for this useB: Good scientific evidence for this useC: Unclear scientific evidence for this useD: Fair scientific evidence for this use (it may not work)F: Strong scientific evidence against this use (it likley does not work)

Tradition / Theory
The below uses are based on tradition, scientific theories, or limited research. They often have not been thoroughly tested in humans, and safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious, and should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider. There may be other proposed uses that are not listed below.

Some experts recommend taking chasteberry on an empty stomach in the morning for the best benefits. However, no studies have confirmed this finding.

For corpus luteum deficiency / luteal phase deficiency, 30 drops of Mastodynon® has been used by mouth twice daily for three months. An average daily dose of 40 drops of Agnolyt® has been taken by mouth on an empty stomach for an average of 135 days. Additionally, 40 drops of a chasteberry extract has been taken by mouth daily for six months, and 15 drops has been taken by mouth three times daily for six weeks.

For cyclical breast pain, 1.8 milliliters (60 drops) of Mastodynon® chasteberry extract or one Mastodynon® tablet has been taken by mouth daily. 30 drops Vitex agnus castus extract solution (VACS) has been taken by mouth twice daily for four cycles.

For hyperprolactinemia, 20 milligrams of Strotan® capsules have been taken by mouth daily in women, or 40-160 milligrams of a chasteberry extract has been taken by mouth up to three times daily in men.

For irregular menstrual cycles, 15 drops of a chasteberry extract has been taken by mouth three times daily over several cycles.

For premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), chasteberry extract has been taken by mouth for two months (dosage unknown). 40mg of chasteberry has been taken by mouth daily for two months.

For premenstrual syndrome (PMS), 4-1,800 milligrams of chasteberry powder or ethanolic extract has been taken by mouth once to three times daily for up to three months or three menstrual cycles. 3.5-4.2 milligrams of Agnolyt® have been taken by mouth for up to four months. 40 milligrams of Femicur® has been taken by mouth daily (duration unknown); the suggested dosing for Femaprin®, the equivalent of Agnolyt® sold in the United States, is 30-40 milligrams daily. 40 drops of a chasteberry solution has been mixed in one glass of fruit juice and taken by mouth once daily before breakfast starting six days before menstruation and lasting until menstruation occurred for six consecutive cycles.

Children (younger than 18 years):

There is no proven safe or effective dose for chasteberry in children.

Safety
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration does not strictly regulate herbs and supplements. There is no guarantee of strength, purity or safety of products, and effects may vary. You should always read product labels. If you have a medical condition, or are taking other drugs, herbs, or supplements, you should speak with a qualified healthcare provider before starting a new therapy. Consult a healthcare provider immediately if you experience side effects.

Allergies

Avoid in people with a known allergy or sensitivity to chasteberry, its parts, or members of the Vitex (Verbenaceae) family. Mild skin reactions have been reported including eczema, itching, rash, skin eruptions, urticaria (hives) and allergic exanthema (rash occurring with a disease).

Side Effects and Warnings

Chasteberry is likely safe when used by mouth in otherwise healthy adults using appropriate doses for the short-term relief of signs and symptoms associated with premenstrual syndrome or high prolactin levels in the blood.

Drowsiness or sedation may occur. Use caution if driving or operating heavy machinery.

Avoid in people with a known allergy or sensitivity to chasteberry, its parts, or members of the Vitex (Verbenaceae) family.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Except under strict medical supervision, chasteberry should not be used in pregnancy due to potential uterine stimulatory properties. Some clinicians have used chasteberry in progesterone deficient women during their first trimester to prevent miscarriage, but it is not known if chasteberry is helpful or safe for this indication.

Chasteberry is not recommended in breastfeeding women due to a lack of available scientific evidence. Chasteberry may possibly decrease breast milk production. However, some clinicians actually use low doses to stimulate milk production with some reported benefits.

The information in this monograph is intended for informational purposes only, and is meant to help users better understand health concerns. Information is based on review of scientific research data, historical practice patterns, and clinical experience. This information should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Users should consult with a qualified healthcare provider for specific questions regarding therapies, diagnosis and/or health conditions, prior to making therapeutic decisions.